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City Chickens

Children's Literature: Author Hepperman tells the story of Mary Britton Clouse and husband Bert who founded and run the Chicken Run Rescue in a suburb of Minneapolis. From Mary's first rescue of cockfighting survivors, these birds have been treated respectfully as sentient beings deserving of care and commitment. The number of birds needing rescue has skyrocketed in recent years as people increasingly attempt to raise backyard birds and then abandon them when they find they are too much work, get sick, or don't provide eggs. Wonderful vignettes about individual birds, accompanied by lots of pictures, bring home the distinct personalities of these creatures we often take for granted. Some photos of the horrendous conditions in which birds are raised for eggs and meat production, as well as photos of some badly abused rescue birds are also included. Through her investigations for the story, the author has now adopted two birds. A website and adoption newsletter, produced by the Clouses, is available for those seeking additional information. Advice for alternatives to hatching chicks in classrooms is provided along with basic care instructions for those considering ownership. Source readings follow the text. This is an essential book for libraries serving young readers, providing a palatable introduction to considering the ethical issues surrounding our treatment of animals. Reviewer: Paula McMillen, Ph.D.